citydesk

Press: Emotionally Charged North Idaho School Meeting on Bullying, Racism

In the wake of a north Idaho school trustee's inappropriate remark that many considered racist, a group of parents stood before the trustee and his colleagues Monday night to say that racism is a continuing problem in their school district.

"Each student deserves an equal opportunity to an educational environment that is free of harassment and bullying," said Deon Watson, the father of a bi-racial family. Watson explained that his son, who graduated from Coeur d'Alene High School last year, was regularly subjected to "racist comments."

Another parent, Doneisa Eborall, also spoke of her daughter's experience.

Regan also took time at Monday's meeting to offer an apology for his earlier remarks, according to the Press.

"I made a regrettable comment and some people found it offensive, and I'm deeply sorry for that and I'd just like to take a moment to apologize to you, and the administration, the parents, the students and the teachers for any negative effects that that might have caused you, and distress, and bad reflection on the school district," he said.

Another trustee, board chair Terri Seymour, reportedly became choked up while speaking on the issue.

"I want it stopped. It needs to stop now, and I apologize and I will do my best to make sure that it stops," said Seymour. "I'm sorry. I get very emotional about it because my children were bullied also."